Chrysene

Carcinogens

Semi-Volatile Organic Compound (SVOC)

Other Classes -> Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon

log Kow = 5.73

5.9

6.01

1.274 at 68 °F (NTP, 1992) - Denser than water; will sink

1.274 g/cu cm at 20 °C

1.3 g/cm³

1.274

1.274 @ 24°C

Red blue fluorescent orthorhombic plates from benzene, acetic acid

Orthorhombic bipyramidal plates from benzene

Colorless platelets with blue fluorescence

Insoluble. (0.0018mg/kg) (NTP, 1992)

In water, 2.0X10-3 mg/L at 25 °C

Solubility in water at 25 °C: 0.0020 + or - 0.0002 mg/L

Slightly soluble in ethanol, ethyl ether, acetone, benzene, carbon disulfide; insoluble in toluene

Slightly soluble in alcohol, ether, carbon bisulfide, and glacial acetic acid. At 25 °C, 1 g dissolves in 1300 mL absolute alcohol, 480 mL toluene; about 5% is soluble in toluene at 100 °C. Moderately soluble in boiling benzene. Insoluble in water. Only slightly soluble in cold organic solvents, but fairly soluble in these solvents when hot, including glacial acetic acid.

Solubility in water: very poor

838 °F at 760 mmHg (NTP, 1992)

448 °C

448 °C

838 °F

448 °C @760 [mm Hg]

Hazardous decomposition products formed under fire conditions - Carbon oxides.

When heated to decomposition it emits acrid smoke and fumes.

489 °F (NTP, 1992)

255 °C

Chrysene forms crystalline complexes with picric acid (orange-red needles from benzene, melting-point 174-175 °C corrected), s-trinitrobenzene (188.5-189.5 °C corrected) and 2,4,7-trinitrofluorenone (yellow needles from alcohol, melting point 247.8-249 °C)

254 - 256 °C

489 °F

255.5 °C

Vapor pressure: 6.3X10-7 mm Hg

6.23X10-9 mm Hg at 25 °C

Danger

H341: Suspected of causing genetic defects [Warning Germ cell mutagenicity]

P203, P273, P280, P318, P391, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Danger

H341 (100%): Suspected of causing genetic defects [Warning Germ cell mutagenicity]

P203, P273, P280, P318, P391, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Chemical: Chrysene

Hazard Traits - Bioaccumulation; Carcinogenicity; Environmental Persistence

Chrysene is listed on the EPA's Chemical Data Reporting (CDR) system. Manufacturers and importers of Chrysene are required to report information about their production and use of this chemical to the EPA under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). (40 eCFR Part 711)

Substance: Chrysene

Chrysene: Does not have an individual approval but may be used under an appropriate group standard

The New Jersey Worker and Community Right to Know Act requires public and private employers to provide information about hazardous substances at their workplaces. (N.J.S.A. 34:5A-1 et. seq.)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 171 [Substances (Low to Moderate Hazard)]:

Combustible. Finely dispersed particles form explosive mixtures in air.

Lehr RE et al; Carcinog Compr Surv 3: 231 (1978). A review of the bay-region theory of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon-induced carcinogenicity.

USEPA; Ambient Water Quality Criteria Doc: Polynuclear Aromatic Hydrocarbons (Draft) (1980)

Health & Welfare Canada; Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (1979) Report No. 80-EHD-50

USEPA; Health Assessment Document: Polycyclic Organic Matter (1979) EPA-600/9-79-008

For more Special Reports (Complete) data for CHRYSENE (9 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

U050; As stipulated in 40 CFR 261.33, when chrysene, as a commercial chemical product or manufacturing chemical intermediate or an off-specification commercial chemical product or a manufacturing chemical intermediate, becomes a waste, it must be managed according to Federal and/or State hazardous waste regulations. Also defined as a hazardous waste is any residue, contaminated soil, water, or other debris resulting from the cleanup of a spill, into water or on dry land, of this waste. Generators of small quantities of this waste may qualify for partial exclusion from hazardous waste regulations (40 CFR 261.5).

Excerpt from ERG Guide 171 [Substances (Low to Moderate Hazard)]:

Use water spray, dry powder, foam, carbon dioxide.

Fresh air, rest.

Remove contaminated clothes. Rinse and then wash skin with water and soap.

First rinse with plenty of water for several minutes (remove contact lenses if easily possible), then refer for medical attention.

Rinse mouth.

EYES: First check the victim for contact lenses and remove if present. Flush victim's eyes with water or normal saline solution for 20 to 30 minutes while simultaneously calling a hospital or poison control center. Do not put any ointments, oils, or medication in the victim's eyes without specific instructions from a physician. IMMEDIATELY transport the victim after flushing eyes to a hospital even if no symptoms (such as redness or irritation) develop.

Biological Exposure Indices (BEI) [ACGIH] - 1-Hydroxypyrene (1-HP) in urine = 2.5 ug/L at end of shift at end of workweek; (Adjusted for the Pyrene to Benzo(a)pyrene ratio); 3-Hydroxybenzo(a)pyrene (3-HBAP) in urine = Nq at end of shift at end of workweek; [TLVs and BEIs]

Suitable extinguishing media: Use water spray, alcohol-resistant foam, dry chemical, or carbon dioxide.

Advice for firefighters: Wear self-contained breathing apparatus for firefighting if necessary.

Keep container tightly closed in a dry and well-ventilated place.

PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": Storage site should be as close as practicable to lab in which carcinogens are to be used, so that only small quantities required for ... expt need to be carried. Carcinogens should be kept in only one section of cupboard, an explosion-proof refrigerator or freezer (depending on chemicophysical properties ...) that bears appropriate label. An inventory ... should be kept, showing quantity of carcinogen & date it was acquired ... Facilities for dispensing ... should be contiguous to storage area. /Chemical Carcinogens/

ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES: Personal precautions, protective equipment and emergency procedures: Use personal protective equipment. Avoid dust formation. Avoid breathing vapors, mist or gas. Ensure adequate ventilation. Evacuate personnel to safe areas. Avoid breathing dust. Environmental precautions: Prevent further leakage or spillage if safe to do so. Do not let product enter drains. Discharge into the environment must be avoided. Methods and materials for containment and cleaning up: Pick up and arrange disposal without creating dust. Sweep up and shovel. Keep in suitable, closed containers for disposal.

PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": A high-efficiency particulate arrestor (HEPA) or charcoal filters can be used to minimize amt of carcinogen in exhausted air ventilated safety cabinets, lab hoods, glove boxes or animal rooms ... Filter housing that is designed so that used filters can be transferred into plastic bag without contaminating maintenance staff is avail commercially. Filters should be placed in plastic bags immediately after removal ... The plastic bag should be sealed immediately ... The sealed bag should be labelled properly ... Waste liquids ... should be placed or collected in proper containers for disposal. The lid should be secured & the bottles properly labelled. Once filled, bottles should be placed in plastic bag, so that outer surface ... is not contaminated ... The plastic bag should also be sealed & labelled. ... Broken glassware ... should be decontaminated by solvent extraction, by chemical destruction, or in specially designed incinerators. /Chemical Carcinogens/

... In surface, waters, one-third of the total polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) is bound to larger suspended particles, a third is bound to finely dispersed particles, and the last third is present in dissolved form. The particle-bound portion of PAHs can be removed by sedimentation, flocculation, and filtration processes. The remaining one-third dissolved PAH usually requires oxidation for partial removal/transformation. /Polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons/

Generators of waste (equal to or greater than 100 kg/mo) containing this contaminant, EPA hazardous waste number U050, must conform with USEPA regulations in storage, transportation, treatment and disposal of waste.

SRP: Wastewater from contaminant suppression, cleaning of protective clothing/equipment, or contaminated sites should be contained and evaluated for subject chemical or decomposition product concentrations. Concentrations shall be lower than applicable environmental discharge or disposal criteria. Alternatively, pretreatment and/or discharge to a permitted wastewater treatment facility is acceptable only after review by the governing authority and assurance that "pass through" violations will not occur. Due consideration shall be given to remediation worker exposure (inhalation, dermal and ingestion) as well as fate during treatment, transfer and disposal. If it is not practicable to manage the chemical in this fashion, it must be evaluated in accordance with EPA 40 CFR Part 261, specifically Subpart B, in order to determine the appropriate local, state and federal requirements for disposal.

Product: Offer surplus and non-recyclable solutions to a licensed disposal company. Contact a licensed professional waste disposal service to dispose of this material. Dissolve or mix the material with a combustible solvent and burn in a chemical incinerator equipped with an afterburner and scrubber; Contaminated packaging: Dispose of as unused product.

A good candidate for rotary kiln incineration at a temperature range of 820 to 1,600 °C and residence times of seconds for liquids and gases, and hours for solids. Also, a good candidate for fluidized bed incineration at a temperature range of 450 to 980 °C and residence times of seconds for liquids and gases, and longer for solids.

For more Disposal Methods (Complete) data for CHRYSENE (10 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Personal protection: particulate filter respirator adapted to the airborne concentration of the substance. Do NOT let this chemical enter the environment. Sweep spilled substance into covered sealable containers. If appropriate, moisten first to prevent dusting. Carefully collect remainder. Then store and dispose of according to local regulations.

ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES: Personal precautions, protective equipment and emergency procedures: Use personal protective equipment. Avoid dust formation. Avoid breathing vapors, mist or gas. Ensure adequate ventilation. Evacuate personnel to safe areas. Avoid breathing dust. Environmental precautions: Prevent further leakage or spillage if safe to do so. Do not let product enter drains. Discharge into the environment must be avoided.

Precautions for safe handling: Avoid contact with skin and eyes. Avoid formation of dust and aerosols. Provide appropriate exhaust ventilation at places where dust is formed.

Appropriate engineering controls: Handle in accordance with good industrial hygiene and safety practice. Wash hands before breaks and at the end of workday.

Gloves must be inspected prior to use. Use proper glove removal technique (without touching glove's outer surface) to avoid skin contact with this product. Dispose of contaminated gloves after use in accordance with applicable laws and good laboratory practices. Wash and dry hands.

For more Preventive Measures (Complete) data for CHRYSENE (17 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Chrysene was not detected (detection limit 1.0 ng/g lipid weight) in the adipose tissue of 43 Korean women; samples were collected May 2007 to May 2008(1).

Chrysene concentrations were measured in human milk, placenta and umbilical cord blood collected 2005 to 2006 from 40 nonsmoking mothers living in Beijing, China for at least 6 years, with the following results(1):[Table#4189]

Chrysene is one of the basic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) which is a toxic environmental pollutant and consistently exposed to sunlight. However, little information is available on its photogenotoxicity. The objective of the present study was to analyze the effects of chrysene, under environmental intensity of UVB (0.6 mW/sq cm) in human skin epidermal cell line (HaCaT). Kinetic of chrysene showed that the highest intracellular uptake of chrysene occurred after 24 hr of incubation. The intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) was increased in a concentration dependent manner in chrysene treated cells under UVB irradiation. It was observed that UVB-irradiated chrysene induced apoptosis through activation of caspases-3 and phosphatidylserine translocation. Glutathione reduced (GSH) and catalase activity were decreased while apoptosis and DNA damage were induced significantly (p>0.01) as concentration of chrysene increased. Thus our results suggest that chrysene may be phototoxic as well as photogenotoxic under UVB irradiation.

This study evaluates the toxic effects of chrysene (a component from cigarette smoke) on Muller cells (MIO-M1) in vitro and investigates whether the inhibitor lipoic acid can reverse the chrysene-induced toxic effects. MIO-M1 cells were exposed to varying concentrations of chrysene with or without lipoic acid. Cell viability was measured by a trypan blue dye exclusion assay. Caspase-3/7 activity was measured by a fluorochrome assay. Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release was quantified by an LDH assay. The production of reactive oxygen/nitrogen species (ROS/RNS) was measured with a 2',7'-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate dye assay. Mitochondrial membrane potential was measured using the JC-1 assay. Intracellular ATP content was determined by the ATPLite kit. MIO-M1 cells showed significantly decreased cell viability, increased caspase-3/7 activity, LDH release at the highest chrysene concentration, elevated ROS/RNS levels, decreased mitochondrial membrane potential value, and decreased intracellular ATP content after exposure to 300, 500, and 1,000 uM chrysene compared with the control. Pretreatment with 80 uM lipoic acid reversed loss of cell viability in 500-uM-chrysene-treated cultures (24.7%, p<0.001). Similarly, pretreatment with 80 uM lipoic acid before chrysene resulted in decreased caspase-3/7 activities (75.7%, p<0.001), decreased ROS/RNS levels (80.02%, p<0.001), increased mitochondrial membrane potential values (86%, p<0.001), and increased ATP levels (40.5%, p<0.001) compared to 500-uM-chrysene-treated cultures. Chrysene, a component of cigarette smoke, can diminish cell viability in MIO-M1 cells in vitro by apoptosis at the lower concentrations of Chrysene (300 and 500 uM) and necrosis at the highest concentration. Moreover, mitochondrial function was particularly altered. However, lipoic acid can partially reverse the cytotoxic effect of chrysene. Lipoic acid administration may reduce or prevent Muller cell degeneration in retinal degenerative disorders.

Ferulic, caffeic, chlorogenic, and ellagic acids, four naturally occurring plant phenols, inhibit the mutagenicity and cytotoxicity of (+/-)-7beta,8alpha-dihydroxy-9alpha, 10alpha-epoxy-7,8,9,10-tetrahydrobenzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P 7,8-diol-9,10-epoxide-2), the only known ultimate carcinogenic metabolite of benzo[a]pyrene. The mutagenicity of 0.05 nmol of B[a]P 7,8-diol-9,10-epoxide-2 in strain TA100 of Salmonella typhimurium is inhibited 50% by incubation of the bacteria and the diol epoxide with 150 nmol of ferulic acid, 75 nmol of caffeic acid, 50 nmol of chlorogenic acid or, most strikingly, 1 nmol of ellagic acid in the 0.5-ml incubation mixture. A 3-nmol dose of ellagic acid inhibits mutation induction by 90%. Ellagic acid is also a potent antagonist of B[a]P 7,8-diol-9,10-epoxide-2 in Chinese hamster V79 cells. Mutations to 8-azaguanine resistance induced by 0.2 uM diol epoxide are reduced by 50% when tissue culture media also contains 2 uM ellagic acid. Similar to results obtained with the bacteria, ferulic, caffeic, and chlorogenic acids are approximately two orders of magnitude less active than ellagic acid in the mammalian cell assay. The antimutagenic effects of the plant phenols result from their direct interaction with B[a]P 7,8-diol-9,10-epoxide-2, because a concentration-dependent increase in the rate of diol epoxide disappearance in cell-free solutions of 1:9 dioxane/water, pH 7.0, is observed with all four phenols. In parallel with the mutagenicity studies, ellagic acid is 80-300 times more effective than the other phenols in accelerating the disappearance of B[a]P 7,8-diol-9,10-epoxide-2. Ellagic acid at 10 uM increases the disappearance of B[a]P 7,8-diol-9,10-epoxide-2 by approximately 20-fold relative to the spontaneous and hydronium ion-catalyzed hydrolysis of the diol epoxide at pH 7.0. Ellagic acid is a highly potent inhibitor of the mutagenic activity of bay-region diol epoxides of benzo[a]pyrene, dibenzo[a,h]pyrene, and dibenzo[a,i]pyrene, but higher concentrations of ellagic acid are needed to inhibit the mutagenic activity of the chemically less reactive bay-region diol epoxides of benz[a]anthracene, chrysene, and benzo[c]phenanthrene. These studies demonstrate that ellagic acid is a potent antagonist of the adverse biological effects of the ultimate carcinogenic metabolites of several polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and suggest that this naturally occurring plant phenol, normally ingested by humans, may inhibit the carcinogenicity of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.

The influence of some compounds belonging to the group of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (eg, ... chrysene, ... on the pharmacokinetics of theophylline in rats is described. ... /Chrysene/ significantly accelerated the elimination of the drug. ...

The potencies of various xenobiotics for induction of monooxygenases and their influence on the rat liver microsomal metabolite profile of the environmentally relevant weak carcinogen, chrysene, was determined. Among the widely distributed chemicals, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) and preferentially 3,3,'4,4'-tetrachlorobiphenyl as well as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and their heterocyclic analogues such as benzo[a]pyrene, benzo[b]- and -[j]fluoranthene, indeno[1,2,3-cd]pyrene, dibenz[a,h]acridine, benzo[b]naphtho-[2,1-d]thiophene, and 5,6-benzoflavone were found to be potent inducers stimulating the formation of the proximate, and some of them also the ultimate carcinogen of chrysene. Lindane, carbaryl, DDT, and pentachlorophenol were found to be inefficient or weak inducers. With the exception of phenobarbital no inducers were found among the pharmaceuticals investigated. Sex-dependent metabolism was found for Wistar-rats. No 1,2-oxidation was observed in females, and turnover rates were lower than in males. ...in most cases the same effective xenobiotic induces the bay-region diolepoxide in both chrysene and benz[a]anthracene.

LC50; Species: Artemia salina (Brine Shrimp); Conditions: saltwater, static, 28 °C; Concentration: 3000 ug/L for 3 hr /formulation/

LC50; Species: Daphnia magna /(Water flea)/; Concentration: 1.9 mg/L for 2 hr /Conditions of bioassay not specified/

LC50; Species: Aedes aegypti (mosquito); Concentration: 1.7 mg/L for 24 hr /Conditions of bioassay not specified/

LC50; Species: Rana pipiens (frog); Concentration: >6.7 mg/L for 24 hr /Conditions of bioassay not specified/

LC50; Species: Neanthes arenaceodentata (marine worm); Concentration: >1 mg/L for 96 hr /Conditions of bioassay not specified/

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), log Koc values of 6.11-7.34(2), indicate that chrysene is expected to be immobile in soil(SRC). Volatilization of chrysene from moist soil surfaces is not expected to be an important fate process(SRC) given an estimated Henry's Law constant of 9.4X10-7 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), based upon its vapor pressure, 6.23X10-9 mm Hg(3), and water solubility, 0.002 mg/L(4). Chrysene is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon its vapor pressure(3). Adsorption to soil is expected to inhibit biodegradation(5). Biodegradation half-lives of 371 and 387 days were observed for chrysene in Kidman and McLaurin sandy loam soils, respectively(6). Chrysene was degraded 42-69% from starting concentrations of 8-48 mg/kg in 847 days in plots containing saturated dredged sediment planted with lake sedge (Carex aquatalis), annual rye (Lolium multiflorum), bulrush (Scirpus fluviatilis), prairie cord grass (Spartina pectinata) and black willow (Salix nigra); plot containing native vegetation degraded chrysene 73% and plots containing no vegetation saw an 80% reduction in chrysene(7).

TERRESTRIAL FATE: The degradation of chrysene was monitored for 12 months in soil with a starting concentration of 18.6 mg/kg; the following concentrations (mg/kg) were reported(1):[Table#4195]

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Chrysene was not detected in soil 241 days after sludge application to field plots at a rate of 56,018 kg/ha. Chrysene concentrations after sludge application to field plots at a rate of 448, 144 kg/ha were as follows(1):[Table#4196]

AQUATIC FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), log Koc values of 6.11-7.34(2), indicate that chrysene is expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment(SRC). Volatilization from water surfaces is not expected(3) based upon an estimated Henry's Law constant of 9.4X10-7(SRC) derived from its vapor pressure, 6.23X10-9 mm Hg(4), and water solubility, 0.002 mg/L(5). Chrysene is not expected to undergo hydrolysis in the environment due to the lack of functional groups that hydrolyze under environmental conditions(3). According to a classification scheme(6), estimated BCF of 2408-6465(SRC), from its log Kow of 5.63-6.28(7) and a regression-derived equation(8), suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is very high(SRC). Marine organisms which lack a metabolic detoxification enzyme system, tend to accumulate polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons(9). Half-lives for the direct photochemical decomposition of chrysene in freshwater were computed to be: 4.4 hours near the surface of freshwater (simulated latitude, 40 deg N, mid-day, mid-summer), 13 hours at a depth of 5 m, and 68 hours at a depth of 5 m and partitioned to bottom sediment(10). In shake flask studies, an initial chrysene concentration of 2.7 ug/mL was reduced to 1.2 ug/mL following 2 weeks incubation in contaminated groundwater from t a US creosote superfund site(11), suggesting that biodegradation is not an important environmental fate process in water(SRC).

ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), chrysene, which has a vapor pressure of 6.23X10-9 mm Hg at 25 °C(2), is expected to exist solely in the particulate phase in the ambient atmosphere. Particulate-phase chrysene may be removed from the air by wet and dry deposition(SRC). Chrysene contains chromophores that absorb at wavelengths >290 nm(3) and, therefore, may be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight(SRC).

Chrysene has been detected in, ppb: Kippered cod, 1.4; smoked and broiled Japanese fish at concentrations of 42-173 ppb in Katsuobushi, 36 ppb in Sababushi, 10 ppb in Urumebushi, and 0.4-4.3 ppb in smoked horse mackerel; charcoal-broiled steaks, 0.6; barbecued ribs, 2.2; charcoal-broiled hamburger, 1.7; charcoal-broiled pork chops, 6.3; charcoal-broiled chicken, 2.2; charcoal-broiled sirloin steak, 9.3; charcoal-broiled T-bone steak, 25.4; flame-broiled T-bone steak, 2.0; ham, 0.5 to 2.6; barbecued beef, 9.6; hot sausage, 1.0; coffee soots, 530 to 670; and cod liver oil, 80(1). The following smoked meat products from Germany and Yugoslavia were found to contain chrysene, ppb: cold smoked sausage with casing, 9.2, with casing removed, 2.4; hot smoked sausage with casing, 4.4, with casing removed, 2.8; hot smoked salami with casing removed, 1.2; hot smoked mortadella with casing removed, 3.4; light smoked ham, 0 to 3; and heavily smoked ham, 12 to 66(1). Chrysene was detected in the following fruit and plant products, ppb: spinach, 28; salad, 5.7 to 26.5; kale, 58 to 395; tomatoes, 0.5; dried yeast, 42 to 203; whiskey, 0.04 to 0.06; cereals, 0.8 to 14; tea extracts, 4.6 to 6; and roast peanuts 0.01 to 0.7(1). Chrysene was not detected in food products from 10 markets in 3 regions of Hong Kong, China (coconut milk, evaporated milk, goose liver, chicken skin, chicken breast, white and red wine, corn, mustard seed, olive, peanut, fish or flaxseed oil, flaxseed and fish oil capsules, pistachio, sunflower or pumpkin seed, Hawaii nutlet, almond, cashew, walnut or peanut; samples were collected Aug to Oct 2007(2). Chrysene was detected in the following smoked meat products, ppb: Kochwurst, 0.3; frankfurters, 2.8; Frankisch black smoked ham, 16.8; and ham black smoked in smoke from smoldering, 12.0(3). Honey collected May-Oct 2007 from eight sample locations in Italy contained chrysene at <0.05-1.50 ng/g wet weight(4).

Chrysene/triphenylene was detected in mesquite grilled beef patties at 41, 35 and 33 ug/kg for 70% lean, 80% lean, and 90% lean beef, respectively; and at respective concentrations of 4, 3 ug/kg and not detected in hardwood charcoal grilled patties(1). Chrysene/benzo(a)anthracene/triphenylene was detected at 0.47-8.4 ug/kg fresh weight in 23 lettuce (Lactuca sativa var. crispa) samples grown in private gardens Sept 1984 in southern Finland(2). Chrysene/benzo(a)anthracene/triphenylene was detected in the following Finnish fat samples, ug/kg: 80% butter and vegetable oil mixture, 0.19; cooking margarines, 0.53-21; table margarines, not detected to 1.4; margarine, 5.3; cold pressed sunflower oil, 1.5; cold pressed corn oil, 3.5; rapeseed and turnip rapeseed oil, 0.41; soybean oil, 5.7-5.9; coconut fat, 3.3; crude coconut oil, 190; and deodorized coconut oil, 5.7(3). Chrysene/benzo(a)anthracene was detected in uncooked, cooked, caned and frozen carrots, purchased from local markets, at 70.5, 3.6, 1.9 and 7.5 ug/kg dry weight, respectively(4). The peel and core of carrots, grown in soil amended with sewage sludge, contained chrysene/benzo(a)anthracene at 7.1-10.3 and 0.1-1.6 ug/kg fresh weight, respectively(5).

In foods obtained from supermarkets in a survey conducted 1985 to 1988 in Milan, Italy, chrysene was not detected in potatoes, apples, cod, milk/yogurt, cheese, beef, pork, chicken, cured meats, eggs, butter, chocolate, wine or coffee. It was detected in other foods at the following concentrations(1):[Table#4202]

Chrysene concentrations were measured in food samples collected in the United Kingdom in 1979 with the following results(1):[Table#4203]

For more Food Survey Values (Complete) data for CHRYSENE (9 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

The substance can be absorbed into the body by inhalation of its aerosol, through the skin and by ingestion.

Oral (L10) ; inhalation (L10)

IDENTIFICATION AND USE: Chrysene forms colorless platelets with blue fluorescence. It is used only for research purposes. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons are a group of chemicals that are formed during the incomplete burning of coal, oil, gas, wood, garbage, or other organic substances, such as tobacco and charbroiled meat. HUMAN EXPOSURE AND TOXICITY: Chrysene is able to induce aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase (AHH) in cultured human lymphocytes. Probable human carcinogen. ANIMAL STUDIES: A single topical application of chrysene to neonatal rats at 1 mg/10 g body weight resulted in induction of skin and liver activity of enzymes. AHH activity was increased 251% in skin and 339% in liver; 7-ethoxycoumarin deethylase 133 and 208%, respectively. Among 20 female mice painted with 1% solution of chrysene, papillomas appeared in 9 animals and carcinomas in 8, the first tumor being observed after 8 months. There was an obvious shortening of the lifespan. Groups of 10 rats received repeated injections of 2-6 mg chrysene; four tumors were observed in treated animals, and sarcomas were found in controls. Several hydroxylated metabolites of chrysene were formed by rat liver microsomal cytochrome P450 activity, some of which had estrogenic activity. Chrysene has a "bay-region" in structure. It is metabolized by mixed function oxidases to reactive "bay-region" diol epoxides that are mutagenic in bacteria and tumorigenic in mouse skin painting assays and when injected into newborn mice. Mutagenicity tests were performed with chrysene in the Salmonella (TA98 and TA1535) microsome test, mice oocytes, bone-marrow cells and spermatogonia of Chinese hamsters. Using the Salmonella microsome test, no mutagenic activity was found when chrysene alone was tested. Chrysene, 450 mg/kg was given to Chinese hamsters by oral, gavage, or intraperitoneal administration and showed no mutagenic effects. In oocytes of mice, 8-12 weeks of age, a single application of 450 mg/kg chrysene resulted in a weak but significant chromosome aberration. In spermatogonia of Chinese hamsters a low but not significant increase in chromosomal aberrations, excluding gaps, was found. The chemical was positive in the Ames test with metabolic activation using strains TA100 and TA98. Chrysene may be phototoxic as well as photogenotoxic under UVB irradiation. ECOTOXICITY STUDIES: Biotransformation and detoxification responses of mature scallop Chlamys farreri were studied during the reproduction period. Overall, females accumulated more chrysene than males, while males were more sensitive than females to chrysene exposure in gene expressions and enzyme activities.

The ability of PAH's to bind to blood proteins such as albumin allows them to be transported throughout the body. Many PAH's induce the expression of cytochrome P450 enzymes, especially CYP1A1, CYP1A2, and CYP1B1, by binding to the aryl hydrocarbon receptor or glycine N-methyltransferase protein. These enzymes metabolize PAH's into their toxic intermediates. The reactive metabolites of PAHs (epoxide intermediates, dihydrodiols, phenols, quinones, and their various combinations) covalently bind to DNA and other cellular macromolecules, initiating mutagenesis and carcinogenesis. (L10, L23, A27, A32)

The average daily intake of chrysene in the United Kingdom in 1979 was 0.50 ug/person/day, based on total daily consumption of 1.46 kg food and beverages(1). The average daily respiratory intake of chrysene/triphenylene in Osaka, Japan was 18 ng/day/man from ambient air, based on atmospheric samples collected in 1981 and 1982(2).

U050; As stipulated in 40 CFR 261.33, when chrysene, as a commercial chemical product or manufacturing chemical intermediate or an off-specification commercial chemical product or a manufacturing chemical intermediate, becomes a waste, it must be managed according to Federal and/or State hazardous waste regulations. Also defined as a hazardous waste is any residue, contaminated soil, water, or other debris resulting from the cleanup of a spill, into water or on dry land, of this waste. Generators of small quantities of this waste may qualify for partial exclusion from hazardous waste regulations (40 CFR 261.5).

Persons in charge of vessels or facilities are required to notify the National Response Center (NRC) immediately, when there is a release of this designated hazardous substance, in an amount equal to or greater than its reportable quantity of 100 lb or 45.4 kg. The toll free number of the NRC is (800) 424-8802. The rule for determining when notification is required is stated in 40 CFR 302.4 (section IV. D.3.b).

Toxic pollutant designated pursuant to section 307(a)(1) of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act and is subject to effluent limitations. /Polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (including benzanthracenes, benzopyrenes, benzofluoranthene, chrysenes, dibenz-anthracenes, and indenopyrenes)/

For the maximum protection of human health from the potential carcinogenic effects of exposure to polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons through ingestion of contaminated water and contaminated aquatic organisms, the ambient water concentration should be zero, based on the nonthreshold assumption for this chemical. However, zero level may not be attainable at the present time. Therefore, the levels which may result in incremental increase of cancer risk over the lifetime are estimated at 1X10-5, 1X10-6, and 1X10-7. The corresponding recommended criteria are 28.0 ng/L, 2.8 ng/L, and 0.28 ng/L, respectively. If these estimates are made for consumption of aquatic organisms only, excluding consumption of water, the levels are 311.0 ng/L, 31.1 ng/L, and 3.11 ng/L, respectively. /Polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons/.

The attempt to develop a drinking water criterion for polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) as a class is hindered by several gaps in the scientific data base: (1) The PAH class is composed of numerous compounds having diverse biological effects and varying carcinogenic potential. A "representative" PAH mixture, has not been defined. (2) The common practice of using data derived from studies with benzo(a)pyrene to make generalizations concerning the effects of environmental PAH may not be scientifically sound. (3) No chronic animal toxicity studies involving oral exposure to PAH mixtures exist. (4) No direct human data concerning the effects of exposure to defined PAH mixtures exist. /Polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons/

(FL) FLORIDA 4.8 ug/L

(WI) WISCONSIN 0.2 ug/L

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH)-type compounds induce at least two rat UDP-glucuronosyltransferase isoforms, UGT1A6 and UGT1A7. Among the glucuronidation reactions of PAH metabolites studied, mono- and diglucuronide formation of benzo[a]pyrene and chrysene-3,6-diphenol showed the highest induction factors in rat liver microsomes. Availability of AHH-1 cells stably expressing UGT1A7 allowed us to study whether this PAH-inducible isoform could catalyze benzo[a]pyrene and chrysene-3,6-diphenol glucuronidation. It was found that UGT1A7 indeed catalyzed mono- and diglucuronide formation of both benzo[a]pyrene and chrysene 3,6-diphenols. V79 cell-expressed rat UGT1A6 also catalyzed these reactions, except for chrysene diphenol diglucuronide formation. Enzyme kinetic studies of the glucuronidation of 6-hydroxychrysene (used as a stable PAH phenol) indicated that UGT1A7 conjugated this compound with a lower apparent Km value (0.1 uM) than UGT1A6 (10 uM). The results suggest that the two PAH-inducible UGTs may cooperate in conjugating PAH metabolites, but that UGT1A7 is more efficient.

Six metabolites of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were identified and quantified from the bile of 31 common eels (Anguilla anguilla), 29 European flounders (Pleuronectes flesus), and 15 conger eels (Conger conger) collected from the Severn Estuary and Bristol Channel during 1997. The bile metabolites were deconjugated by enzymatic hydrolysis and separated by reverse-phase HPLC with fluorescence detection. The major metabolite present in all fish was 1-hydroxy pyrene (75-94% of all metabolites detected) with lower proportions of 1-hydroxy chrysene (2-15%) and 1-hydroxy phenanthrene (2-8%), and small amounts of three benzo[a]pyrene derivatives (<3%). Metabolite concentrations (normalized to biliverdin content) were significantly higher in common eels than in the other two species and tended to be higher in all species at the beginning of the year than at the end. The data confirm the importance of 1-hydroxy pyrene as the key PAH metabolite in fish bile and suggest that the common eel is an ideal species for monitoring PAHs in estuarine environments.

We have investigated the regio- and stereoselective metabolism of chrysene, a four-ring symmetrical carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH), by the liver microsomes of brown bullhead (Ameriurus nebulosus), a bottom-dwelling fish species. The liver microsomes from untreated and 3-methylcholanthrene (3-MC)-treated brown bullheads metabolized chrysene at the rate of 30.1 and 82.2 pmol/mg protein/min, respectively. Benzo-ring diols (1,2-diol and 3,4-diol) were the major chrysene metabolites formed by liver microsomes from control and 3-MC-treated fish. However, the control microsomes produced a considerably higher proportion of chrysene 1,2-diol (benzo-ring diol with a bay region double bond) plus 1-hydroxychrysene, than 3,4-diol plus 3-hydroxychrysene, indicating that these microsomes are selective in attacking the 1,2- position of the benzo-ring. On the other hand, 3-MC-induced microsomes did not show such a regioselectivity in the metabolism of chrysene. Control bullhead liver microsomes, compared to control rat liver microsomes, produced a considerably higher proportion of chrysene 1,2-diol, the putative proximate carcinogenic metabolite of chrysene. Like rat liver microsomes, bullhead liver microsomes produced only trace amounts of the K-region diol.Chrysene 1,2-diol and 3,4-diol formed by the liver microsomes from both control and 3-MC-treated bullheads consisted predominantly of their R,R-enantiomers. Chrysene is metabolized by bullhead liver microsomal enzymes to its benzo-ring diols with a relatively lower degree of stereoselectivity compared to benzo[a]pyrene (a five-ring PAH), but with a higher degree of stereoselectivity compared to phenanthrene (a three-ring PAH). The data of this study, together with those from our previous studies with phenanthrene, benzo[a]pyrene and dibenzo[a,l]pyrene (a six-ring PAH), indicate that the regioselectivity in the metabolism of PAHs by brown bullhead and rainbow trout liver microsomes does not vary greatly with the size and shape of the molecule, whereas the degree of stereoselectivity in the metabolism of PAHs to benzo-ring dihydrodiols does.

We have investigated the metabolism of chrysene (CHR) and 5-methychyrsene (5-MeCHR) by Shasta rainbow trout (Oncorhyncus mykiss) and Long Evans rat liver microsomes to assess the effect of a non-benzo ring methyl substituent on the reactions involved in the metabolism of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Trout as well as rat liver microsomes metabolized both CHR and 5-MeCHR at essentially similar rates, indicating that the methyl substituent does not alter the substrate specificity of the cytochrome P450(s) involved in the metabolism of the two PAHs. Dihydrodiols were the major CHR metabolites formed by both trout and rat liver microsomes, whereas the trout liver microsomes formed a considerably higher proportion of 5-MeCHR phenols compared to diols, indicating that 5-methyl substitution alters the substrate specificity of trout microsomal epoxide hydrolase for 5-MeCHR epoxides. Unlike trout liver microsomes, rat liver microsomes formed a much greater proportion of 5-MeCHR diols compared to 5-MeCHR phenols, suggesting that 5-MeCHR epoxides are better substrates for the microsomal epoxide hydrolase present in rat liver than for the enzyme in trout liver. Both trout and rat liver microsomes are more efficient at attacking the bay-region bond versus the non-bay-region double bond in chrysene. In contrast the reverse is true in the case of 5-MeCHR, indicating that a non-benzo ring methyl substituent alters the regioselectivity of the enzymes involved in the oxidative metabolism of PAHs.

For more Metabolism/Metabolites (Complete) data for CHRYSENE (13 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

PAH metabolism occurs in all tissues, usually by cytochrome P-450 and its associated enzymes. PAHs are metabolized into reactive intermediates, which include epoxide intermediates, dihydrodiols, phenols, quinones, and their various combinations. The phenols, quinones, and dihydrodiols can all be conjugated to glucuronides and sulfate esters; the quinones also form glutathione conjugates. (L10)

Chrysene is absorbed via the oral and dermal routes; there is no direct evidence available for absorption via the lungs. Absorption through the lungs is inferred by the measurement of chrysene and its metabolites in groups exposed occupationally to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and in cigarette smokers.

After oral administration in rats, chrysene was measured in peak concentrations within the hour in blood and liver. Chrysene has been found to concentrate in the adipose and mammary tissues after oral administration in rats; after oral administration, the majority of the chrysene is eliminated predominantly via the feces with up to 41%-79% intact and with complete recovery within 2 days.

Chrysene appeared to be absorbed and metabolized in both human and animal skin.

Used in organic synthesis and in research; [HSDB]

Organic synthesis.

Chrysene, alone, is not produced in the United States except as a laboratory research chemical ...

Substance listed with specific concentration in tattoo ink and/or permanent make up according to EU Commission Regulation 2020/2081. The concentration limit (by weight) is 0.00005%.

PAHs are released into the environment via the combustion of fossil fuels, coke oven emissions and vehicle exhausts, as well as naturally from forest fires and volcanic eruptions. PAHs from these sources may contaminate nearly water systems. They are also found in coal tar and charbroiled food. Chrysene is also used in the manufacture of some wood preservatives and dyes. (L10)

(1982) 9.4X10+4 G

7.92X10+7 g

2023: 587,236 lb

(1978) NOT PRODUCED COMMERCIALLY IN USA

(1982) NOT PRODUCED COMMERCIALLY IN USA

There is no commercial production ... of this compound.

Synthesis by heating H2 and acetylene to 800 °C.

Distillation of coal tar.

Is formed during distillation of coal, in very small amount during distillation or pyrolysis of many fats and oils.

When benzofuran is passed through a hot tube together with naphthalene, chrysene is produced

Wood Product Manufacturing

Chrysene: ACTIVE

Coal tar pitch volatiles are products of the distillation of bituminous coal and contain polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons. /Coal tar pitch volatiles/

Chrysene occurs ubiquitously and in about the same concentration as benzo(a)pyrene in products of incomplete combustion. ln addition, chrysene and, preferentially, related stuctures (methyl-substituted and partially hydrogenated chrysenes) occur in higher concentrations than most of the other polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons in fossil fuels such as crude oil and lignite.

PAHs are a group of chemicals that are formed during the incomplete burning of coal, oil, gas, wood, garbage, or other organic substances, such as tobacco and charbroiled meat. There are more than 100 different PAHs. PAHs generally occur as complex mixtures (for example, as part of combustion products such as soot), not as single compounds. PAHs usually occur naturally, but they can be manufactured as individual compounds for research purposes; however, not as the mixtures found in combustion products. ... Others are contained in asphalt used in road construction. They can also be found in substances such as crude oil, coal, coal tar pitch, creosote, and roofing tar. They are found throughout the environment in the air, water, and soil. They can occur in the air, either attached to dust particles or as solids in soil or sediment. /Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons/